Celebrating 100 years of musical tradition, Georgia Tech's band will march in the 2008 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. Band members will be raising money to support their trip throughout the next year.

"The Macy's Parade will be the most fitting way for the band to celebrate our centennial anniversary in front of 50 million viewers, as well as an opportunity for the students to shine as ambassadors for the Institute," said Associate Director of Bands, Chris Moore.

"Anyone who has been a part of the band or who has experienced the energy, entertainment and enthusiasm the band brings to the Tech community and the city of Atlanta understands what a treasure we have," said Assistant Director, Donny Allen.

The full marching band, concert band and symphonic band will all participate in the New York trip. "We are planning a large-scale concert and gala for our alumni, fans, locals and tourists in one of the major concert halls in New York City," said Dr. Andrea Strauss, Director of Bands. "We hope students get a strong sense of pride in representing the Institute and a feeling of satisfaction knowing they reach so many people through their talents and hard work."

More than 1,100 Tech students sing, play or study music each semester. They come from every major on campus, and from many nations around the world. Music ensembles provide a challenging academic and aesthetic experience for the Georgia Tech student. Directors believe that band members will have a unique opportunity while at Tech for the 2008 academic year in celebration of the band's anniversary.

The band hopes to raise $500,000 to cover the cost of the trip. The funds will cover the cost of the traveling party's air, hotel and food expenses, as well as concert hall rental. Band Directors hope this is the first of many high-profile opportunities to share their music programs with the Tech community